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We Could Be Magic
A swoon-worthy young adult graphic novel about a girl's summer job at a theme park from #1 New York Times bestselling author Marissa Meyer.
When Tabitha Laurie was growing up, a visit to Sommerland saved her belief in true love, even as her parents’ marriage was falling apart. Now she’s landed her dream job at the theme park’s prestigious summer program, where she can make magical memories for other kids, guests, and superfans just like her. All she has to do is audition for one of the coveted princess roles, and soon her dreams will come true.
There’s just one problem. The heroes and heroines at Sommerland are all, well… thin. And no matter how much Tabi lives for the magic, she simply doesn't fit the park's idea of a princess.
Given a not-so-regal position at a nacho food stand instead, Tabi is going to need the support of new friends, a new crush, and a whole lot of magic if she’s going to devise her own happily ever after. . . without getting herself fired in the process.
With art by Joelle Murray, the wonder of Sommerland comes to life with charming characters and whimsical backdrops. We Could Be Magic is a perfect read for anyone looking to get swept away by a sparkly summer romance.
When Tabitha Laurie was growing up, a visit to Sommerland saved her belief in true love, even as her parents’ marriage was falling apart. Now she’s landed her dream job at the theme park’s prestigious summer program, where she can make magical memories for other kids, guests, and superfans just like her. All she has to do is audition for one of the coveted princess roles, and soon her dreams will come true.
There’s just one problem. The heroes and heroines at Sommerland are all, well… thin. And no matter how much Tabi lives for the magic, she simply doesn't fit the park's idea of a princess.
Given a not-so-regal position at a nacho food stand instead, Tabi is going to need the support of new friends, a new crush, and a whole lot of magic if she’s going to devise her own happily ever after. . . without getting herself fired in the process.
With art by Joelle Murray, the wonder of Sommerland comes to life with charming characters and whimsical backdrops. We Could Be Magic is a perfect read for anyone looking to get swept away by a sparkly summer romance.
256 pages, Paperback
First published June 3, 2025
36 people are currently reading
20434 people want to read
About the author
Marissa Meyer
95 books130k followersI live in Tacoma, Washington, with my husband and beautiful twin daughters. Represented by Jill Grinberg. Learn more about me and my upcoming books at .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 325 reviews
February 27, 2025
I won a goodreads giveaway for this ARC!!
I think it's a super cute and very wholesome book! I'd highly recommend it, it was just a bit too short. I love the characters--- it's such a sweet and cute plot. The art style is so fun and colorful and really does capture the magic of the setting.
One sentence summary: Tabi is so full of excitement to finally be working at her dream summer job, but there are many different things that break her perfect dream of what working there would be like.
It’s a lovely and body-positive book— I would have loved this growing up.
I think it's a super cute and very wholesome book! I'd highly recommend it, it was just a bit too short. I love the characters--- it's such a sweet and cute plot. The art style is so fun and colorful and really does capture the magic of the setting.
One sentence summary: Tabi is so full of excitement to finally be working at her dream summer job, but there are many different things that break her perfect dream of what working there would be like.
It’s a lovely and body-positive book— I would have loved this growing up.
March 19, 2025
Okay, I loved this!! Such a cute and wholesome graphic novel with a plus size main character who finds love and goes after her dreams. For anyone who has loved Disneyland and dreamed of working there (of course, for copyright reasons this theme park has a completely different name and different princesses, but basically Disney) We Could Be Magic has a character who does just that.
Tabi has dreamed of playing her favorite princess since she was a little girl and lives for the magic of the parks. So getting into a summer employment program is a dream. Or...it starts out that way. Because the truth is that not everyone wants to be there or cares about making magic for guests, and no-one thinks a plus-size girl could play a princess. But Tabi will do whatever it takes to prove them wrong, even as she becomes a little disillusioned with parts of it.
This was exactly what I would have wanted to see as a teenager who loved going to Disney parks every few years with family, and who really could have used this kind of body-positive representation with an adorable romance. If this sounds like your thing I definitely recommend it! I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
Tabi has dreamed of playing her favorite princess since she was a little girl and lives for the magic of the parks. So getting into a summer employment program is a dream. Or...it starts out that way. Because the truth is that not everyone wants to be there or cares about making magic for guests, and no-one thinks a plus-size girl could play a princess. But Tabi will do whatever it takes to prove them wrong, even as she becomes a little disillusioned with parts of it.
This was exactly what I would have wanted to see as a teenager who loved going to Disney parks every few years with family, and who really could have used this kind of body-positive representation with an adorable romance. If this sounds like your thing I definitely recommend it! I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
June 13, 2025
This was so adorable!! I absolutely loved the art, and the characters were so sweet! 💕
I would definitely recommend this cute summery graphic novel with Disneyland vibes!
I would definitely recommend this cute summery graphic novel with Disneyland vibes!
March 9, 2025
firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc!
i’ve missed marissa meyer’s writing style, and i really enjoyed joelle murray’s art style!
this was a sweet, wholesome, and inspiring graphic novel about a fictional theme park based off of disneyland, and it was interesting to see the behind the scenes/innerworkings of the cast and characters you see throughout the park.
i really enjoyed the message meyer/murray put forth: work hard, and never let the magic of your dreams dim ✨
i’ve missed marissa meyer’s writing style, and i really enjoyed joelle murray’s art style!
this was a sweet, wholesome, and inspiring graphic novel about a fictional theme park based off of disneyland, and it was interesting to see the behind the scenes/innerworkings of the cast and characters you see throughout the park.
i really enjoyed the message meyer/murray put forth: work hard, and never let the magic of your dreams dim ✨
March 9, 2025
This is the first book I've held in my hands to read in a long time and I absolutely loved the experience! I won an ARC of this graphic novel in a 카지노싸이트 giveaway. This cute tale set in a theme park was whimsical, enchanting, and had me rooting for the main character Tabi the whole time. What a sweet, feel-good, thoroughly enjoyable story! ˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚
June 23, 2025
➳ 5 ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚
ugh this was so cute and fun and romantic and i loved it sm 🤭
tabi was such a likable mc and her and james were adorable together and their romance was one of my favorites
i also loved that this was a graphic novel even though I don’t read them that often bc the illustrations and all of the colors enhanced the story sm
the rep in this was wonderful and i think this book is so important ‼️ marissa meyer doing the lords work as always
i’m convinced this woman never misses and i will read anything and everything she writes!
୧ ‧₊˚ 🍓 ⋅ ☆
ugh this was so cute and fun and romantic and i loved it sm 🤭
tabi was such a likable mc and her and james were adorable together and their romance was one of my favorites
i also loved that this was a graphic novel even though I don’t read them that often bc the illustrations and all of the colors enhanced the story sm
the rep in this was wonderful and i think this book is so important ‼️ marissa meyer doing the lords work as always
i’m convinced this woman never misses and i will read anything and everything she writes!
୧ ‧₊˚ 🍓 ⋅ ☆
April 18, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc!
This graphic novel was so sweet. While it of course had a happily-ever-after, it had so many great themes and plot lines along the way. Growing up, I loved Raina Telgemeier and this was easily comparable. I really liked that the story was centered around someone who works at a place similar to Disneyworld who realizes that at first, it isn’t as glamorous as she’d expected. I think this is a reality that many people face when doing something like the Disney College Program so it was really nice seeing this represented. I also liked how persistent the main character was. She didn’t give up on her dreams after the few curveballs she was thrown. There are so many things in this book that young people can relate to. It was a quick and cute read that I really enjoyed and think many people will too come publication day.
All opinions are my own.
This graphic novel was so sweet. While it of course had a happily-ever-after, it had so many great themes and plot lines along the way. Growing up, I loved Raina Telgemeier and this was easily comparable. I really liked that the story was centered around someone who works at a place similar to Disneyworld who realizes that at first, it isn’t as glamorous as she’d expected. I think this is a reality that many people face when doing something like the Disney College Program so it was really nice seeing this represented. I also liked how persistent the main character was. She didn’t give up on her dreams after the few curveballs she was thrown. There are so many things in this book that young people can relate to. It was a quick and cute read that I really enjoyed and think many people will too come publication day.
All opinions are my own.
January 22, 2025
This was absolutely perfect in every way!!!!
Evoking the joy of the happiest place on Earth, Sommerland is a theme park that brings every guest magical moments and one-of-a-kind characters. Which, in turn, is why children grow up dreaming of being those characters. As adults, they reach for those nostalgic moments to bring back the memories of what made them special.
That’s exactly what happens for Tabi, who in the summer before her senior year in high school, applies to work for her dream job at Sommerland, with the hopes of becoming a character actor… a princess, to be precise. But every time she tells someone or mentions her dreams, they suggest a costumed character, with their face hidden away.
It’s definitely obvious from early on why they’re all in disbelief on why she isn’t understanding. It’s all about her weight. Which is confirmed later in the book when one of the princesses, who up until now have all been vapid and had a chip on their shoulders, tells her that she’ll never fit in the costumes.
As someone who loves a theme park, it would be so incredible if for once, there really was more representation in character actors, especially face ones. I get that we are stuck with this horrible beauty standard that we’ve grown into, but a small .001 percent of the world fits that. I’d like to see more plus size actors… but that is a tangent, which obviously fits in with the theme of the book, but is neither here nor there.
We Could Be Magic had all the magic and beauty I expect to see when thinking about the themes, but also the jaded attitudes and hate spewing from the mouths of minimum wage employees for a big corporation. It feels almost as if the author and/or illustrator has worked for D!$ney and know exactly what it’s like.
Thank you to the publisher for an eARC of the book. I can’t wait to reread it when it’s released!!!
Evoking the joy of the happiest place on Earth, Sommerland is a theme park that brings every guest magical moments and one-of-a-kind characters. Which, in turn, is why children grow up dreaming of being those characters. As adults, they reach for those nostalgic moments to bring back the memories of what made them special.
That’s exactly what happens for Tabi, who in the summer before her senior year in high school, applies to work for her dream job at Sommerland, with the hopes of becoming a character actor… a princess, to be precise. But every time she tells someone or mentions her dreams, they suggest a costumed character, with their face hidden away.
It’s definitely obvious from early on why they’re all in disbelief on why she isn’t understanding. It’s all about her weight. Which is confirmed later in the book when one of the princesses, who up until now have all been vapid and had a chip on their shoulders, tells her that she’ll never fit in the costumes.
As someone who loves a theme park, it would be so incredible if for once, there really was more representation in character actors, especially face ones. I get that we are stuck with this horrible beauty standard that we’ve grown into, but a small .001 percent of the world fits that. I’d like to see more plus size actors… but that is a tangent, which obviously fits in with the theme of the book, but is neither here nor there.
We Could Be Magic had all the magic and beauty I expect to see when thinking about the themes, but also the jaded attitudes and hate spewing from the mouths of minimum wage employees for a big corporation. It feels almost as if the author and/or illustrator has worked for D!$ney and know exactly what it’s like.
Thank you to the publisher for an eARC of the book. I can’t wait to reread it when it’s released!!!
May 31, 2025
"I like to think that she saw me and knew it was okay to believe in dreams and love and fairy tales. Just like I had when I saw Princess Madeline all those years ago." - Tabitha Laurie.
✨ A Feel-Good Fairytale With a Modern Twist ✨
✨ BLURB:
We Could Be Magic follows Tabitha Laurie, a girl who has always believed that true love exists, especially in a magical place like Sommerland. As she grows up and joins the summer program working behind the scenes at Sommerland, her dream is to become Princess Madeline. However, management insists that the princess must be thin. Determined to prove herself, Tabi works hard and comes up with her own strategy to chase her dream.
✨ MY THOUGHTS ABOUT IT:
This was such a magical read I’ll never forget! Like many kids, I believed in fairy tales and magic growing up. This book brings that feeling back, telling a modern fairy tale that shows kindness, hope, and determination. Marissa Meyer did an incredible job spreading magic through her characters, not just through the setting.
One of the things I loved most was Tabi’s determination. Despite all the mockery and obstacles, she smiled through it all, poured love into her work, and never gave up. And then there's James, who supported her endlessly and believed in the same magic she did. Their bond felt more real and swoon-worthy than any prince on stage.
We Could Be Magic is a beautiful reminder that kindness is free, being helpful costs nothing, and goodness still exists. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance, middle-grade stories, and a little bit of real-life fairy tale magic.
A huge thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, and Feiwel & Friends for letting me experience the magical world of Sommerland with Tabitha and James.
✨WHAT I LIKED:
📌 Tabitha applying to Sommerland while waiting for the audition
📌 Tabi meeting James during the party
📌 James choosing to step down as a Prince
📌 Tabi standing up to Prince Henry
📌 Kyra’s huge character development
📌 That adorable Tabi and James kiss! (OMG!!!)
✨TROPES:
📌 Modern Fairytale
📌 Grumpy x Sunshine
📌 Supportive Love Interest
📌 Chasing Dreams
📌 Found Confidence
📌 Workplace Romance
📌 Unlikely Allies
📌 Overcoming Stereotypes
📌 No Spice
✨ A Feel-Good Fairytale With a Modern Twist ✨
✨ BLURB:
We Could Be Magic follows Tabitha Laurie, a girl who has always believed that true love exists, especially in a magical place like Sommerland. As she grows up and joins the summer program working behind the scenes at Sommerland, her dream is to become Princess Madeline. However, management insists that the princess must be thin. Determined to prove herself, Tabi works hard and comes up with her own strategy to chase her dream.
✨ MY THOUGHTS ABOUT IT:
This was such a magical read I’ll never forget! Like many kids, I believed in fairy tales and magic growing up. This book brings that feeling back, telling a modern fairy tale that shows kindness, hope, and determination. Marissa Meyer did an incredible job spreading magic through her characters, not just through the setting.
One of the things I loved most was Tabi’s determination. Despite all the mockery and obstacles, she smiled through it all, poured love into her work, and never gave up. And then there's James, who supported her endlessly and believed in the same magic she did. Their bond felt more real and swoon-worthy than any prince on stage.
We Could Be Magic is a beautiful reminder that kindness is free, being helpful costs nothing, and goodness still exists. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance, middle-grade stories, and a little bit of real-life fairy tale magic.
A huge thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, and Feiwel & Friends for letting me experience the magical world of Sommerland with Tabitha and James.
✨WHAT I LIKED:
📌 Tabitha applying to Sommerland while waiting for the audition
📌 Tabi meeting James during the party
📌 James choosing to step down as a Prince
📌 Tabi standing up to Prince Henry
📌 Kyra’s huge character development
📌 That adorable Tabi and James kiss! (OMG!!!)
✨TROPES:
📌 Modern Fairytale
📌 Grumpy x Sunshine
📌 Supportive Love Interest
📌 Chasing Dreams
📌 Found Confidence
📌 Workplace Romance
📌 Unlikely Allies
📌 Overcoming Stereotypes
📌 No Spice
March 22, 2025
I think this was super cute and I liked the representation! I know it's a graphic novel but the pacing felt soooo fast.
March 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC!
This book is SO cute and heartwarming! As a fat girl who wanted to be a part of theater, but was told I'd never have "the look" this one hit close to home. I love how confident Tabi is, and how she is willing to work hard for her dream. The romance unfolds pretty naturally and is pretty darn cute. I got a good chuckle our of all the silly little nods to and pokes at Disney.
The artwork is lovely, all soft pastels and whimsy.
I can't wait to get this book into the hands of my readers!
This book is SO cute and heartwarming! As a fat girl who wanted to be a part of theater, but was told I'd never have "the look" this one hit close to home. I love how confident Tabi is, and how she is willing to work hard for her dream. The romance unfolds pretty naturally and is pretty darn cute. I got a good chuckle our of all the silly little nods to and pokes at Disney.
The artwork is lovely, all soft pastels and whimsy.
I can't wait to get this book into the hands of my readers!
May 1, 2025
Omg! I absolutely loved this book. Usually I don’t like graphic novels but this one was so good. The illustrations, the design, the words used.. All PERFECT. I loved Tabitha. Her character portrayed an extremely sweet teenager with the kindest heart even when people were mean and rude she kept smiling. I saw myself in her a lot :)
I’m definitely buying the actual copy of this book when it comes out!!
I’m definitely buying the actual copy of this book when it comes out!!
April 17, 2025
*3 Stars*
Summary: A super cute amusement park romance that wears too thick rose-tinted glasses without enough substance.
Overall, I’m bummed I didn’t enjoy this one more. I’m not the biggest fan of the art style (more so of the desaturated and pastel/cool-toned color palettes) so that didn’t help, but my real gripes were with the content and story arcs themselves. More about what I did and didn’t like below.
Things I Liked:
- The Setting: I don’t think I’ve ever read anything from the perspective of/set in the behind-the-scenes of an amusement park like Disneyland. It was super unique and made for interesting scenarios and a setting for the story.
- The Romance: For the most part, I enjoyed both characters in the romance and thought their development was believable and super sweet. That’s not to say it didn’t have its faults, but I was never rooting against them! I’m sure I would’ve loved them even more in novel format. What bothered me the most was that they never once spoke about their lives outside of the park. I don’t feel like I know who the love interest is at all outside of his job. (Also, what’s his age? He’s one year out of HS, so 18/19, right? And she’s a junior, so 16/17….???).
Things I Didn’t Like:
- Let me start with the main thing, because it’s what really took me out of the story. The amusement park in this is very blatantly meant to be a version of Disneyland, even down to the creator/owner living in the park. Now that’s totally fine, because, you know, copyright reasons. But the fact is that this fictional park is based in reality.
On Tabi’s first day, she’s bombarded by people complaining about what it’s actually like to work there (terrible conditions; boiling weather; rotten children; disrespectful adults, etc). Tabi is confused because she thinks the park is the literal happiest place on earth, so why should they complain? And then her views are backed up when the love interest enters and complains that the employees complaining are full of themselves and ungrateful that they get to work in such a magical place. Um, hello? Now, maybe it’s because I know a lot of the hidden stories behind the glitz and glam, from social media and from classes on the history of Disneyland, but I think employees are allowed to complain about terrible working conditions. I thought maybe that’s where Tabi’s general arc was going, that she would learn that her dreams (more about them later) weren’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s good to learn that. And her resolving to make the magic where she can despite the lack of perfection behind the scenes would have made a much more interesting arc. The way this story came across, we should all be praising these parks and getting annoyed when the employees don’t uphold the same beliefs. Glorifying the parks was just uncomfortable to read imo. And it never felt like Tabi was proven wrong.
- In the same vein as the above ^ — Maybe this is because the blurb spoiled the inner conflict, but how in the world does it take Tabi nearly the whole story to realize why everyone’s being so backhanded when they insist she can’t be cast as a character princess? She claims that this is her childhood, life-long dream, yet she is woefully unprepared for the auditions and doesn’t realize that in a park where “the authenticity of our characters is something [they] highly value,” none of the princesses are curvy or plus sized? How did this never dawn on her? And why wasn’t anyone being straight up with her about it at all? It’s like they were all dancing around the topic.
- The Deus Ex Machina Ending: No spoilers, but yeah. They were very convenient and unrealistic circumstances to get Tabi where she was for the finale. Also, when asked her name in a situation where she believes she’s getting fired, she has the nerve to stay in character as a princess instead of giving her real name lolllll
- Small Details: The blurb talked about how she’d be doing this with friends and a new crush, but she only ever had the new crush and one catty roommate who’s suddenly nice in the end. Also, the love interest plays a prince at one point who was drawn to be Asian throughout the rest of the book. They care so much about character authenticity, then let the non-Asian, lighter haired love interest be the prince with no talk of how that might appear? Also, they definitely pressured him into doing something he could’ve seriously gotten fired over.
- Another Small Detail: LI gives Tabi a penny for a wishing well. She says, “I can afford my own wishes,” before handing the penny back. Lol what
That being said, the overall summer and amusement park vibe was fun to read, but the story just didn’t take its own concepts and themes far enough.
Summary: A super cute amusement park romance that wears too thick rose-tinted glasses without enough substance.
Overall, I’m bummed I didn’t enjoy this one more. I’m not the biggest fan of the art style (more so of the desaturated and pastel/cool-toned color palettes) so that didn’t help, but my real gripes were with the content and story arcs themselves. More about what I did and didn’t like below.
Things I Liked:
- The Setting: I don’t think I’ve ever read anything from the perspective of/set in the behind-the-scenes of an amusement park like Disneyland. It was super unique and made for interesting scenarios and a setting for the story.
- The Romance: For the most part, I enjoyed both characters in the romance and thought their development was believable and super sweet. That’s not to say it didn’t have its faults, but I was never rooting against them! I’m sure I would’ve loved them even more in novel format. What bothered me the most was that they never once spoke about their lives outside of the park. I don’t feel like I know who the love interest is at all outside of his job. (Also, what’s his age? He’s one year out of HS, so 18/19, right? And she’s a junior, so 16/17….???).
Things I Didn’t Like:
- Let me start with the main thing, because it’s what really took me out of the story. The amusement park in this is very blatantly meant to be a version of Disneyland, even down to the creator/owner living in the park. Now that’s totally fine, because, you know, copyright reasons. But the fact is that this fictional park is based in reality.
On Tabi’s first day, she’s bombarded by people complaining about what it’s actually like to work there (terrible conditions; boiling weather; rotten children; disrespectful adults, etc). Tabi is confused because she thinks the park is the literal happiest place on earth, so why should they complain? And then her views are backed up when the love interest enters and complains that the employees complaining are full of themselves and ungrateful that they get to work in such a magical place. Um, hello? Now, maybe it’s because I know a lot of the hidden stories behind the glitz and glam, from social media and from classes on the history of Disneyland, but I think employees are allowed to complain about terrible working conditions. I thought maybe that’s where Tabi’s general arc was going, that she would learn that her dreams (more about them later) weren’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s good to learn that. And her resolving to make the magic where she can despite the lack of perfection behind the scenes would have made a much more interesting arc. The way this story came across, we should all be praising these parks and getting annoyed when the employees don’t uphold the same beliefs. Glorifying the parks was just uncomfortable to read imo. And it never felt like Tabi was proven wrong.
- In the same vein as the above ^ — Maybe this is because the blurb spoiled the inner conflict, but how in the world does it take Tabi nearly the whole story to realize why everyone’s being so backhanded when they insist she can’t be cast as a character princess? She claims that this is her childhood, life-long dream, yet she is woefully unprepared for the auditions and doesn’t realize that in a park where “the authenticity of our characters is something [they] highly value,” none of the princesses are curvy or plus sized? How did this never dawn on her? And why wasn’t anyone being straight up with her about it at all? It’s like they were all dancing around the topic.
- The Deus Ex Machina Ending: No spoilers, but yeah. They were very convenient and unrealistic circumstances to get Tabi where she was for the finale. Also, when asked her name in a situation where she believes she’s getting fired, she has the nerve to stay in character as a princess instead of giving her real name lolllll
- Small Details: The blurb talked about how she’d be doing this with friends and a new crush, but she only ever had the new crush and one catty roommate who’s suddenly nice in the end. Also, the love interest plays a prince at one point who was drawn to be Asian throughout the rest of the book. They care so much about character authenticity, then let the non-Asian, lighter haired love interest be the prince with no talk of how that might appear? Also, they definitely pressured him into doing something he could’ve seriously gotten fired over.
- Another Small Detail: LI gives Tabi a penny for a wishing well. She says, “I can afford my own wishes,” before handing the penny back. Lol what
That being said, the overall summer and amusement park vibe was fun to read, but the story just didn’t take its own concepts and themes far enough.
April 14, 2025
I just finished an amazing book, and despite the multitude of amazing releases yesterday, I turned to my ARCs to see what I should read next, and I was certainly not disappointed!
Tabi Laurie makes a visit to Sommerland as a child which saves her belief in true love amidst the divorce of her parents. Now she's grown up and has been selected for a Sommerland internship at this very same park. Here, she can make magical memories for other kids, guests, and superfans just like her. No matter how much Tabi lives for the Sommerland magic, she doesn't fit the park's idea of a princess. Or does she? With the support of some new friends, a new crush, and a little magic, she just might find that her happily ever after might actually be within her reach.
I am such a sucker for a good graphic novel, and the artwork for this one is very well done. It lends whimsy to such a cute story, full of dreams and magic, just as we would imagine for these characters working in the happiest and most magical places. While this is a young adult graphic novel, I certainly feel like it would be an excellent read for most any age. I grabbed a hardcover copy so my daughters and I can read it together. The ending left it open for sequels, so I certainly hope we hear more from Tabi!
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, and author Marissa Meyer for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Publication Date: June 3, 2025
Tabi Laurie makes a visit to Sommerland as a child which saves her belief in true love amidst the divorce of her parents. Now she's grown up and has been selected for a Sommerland internship at this very same park. Here, she can make magical memories for other kids, guests, and superfans just like her. No matter how much Tabi lives for the Sommerland magic, she doesn't fit the park's idea of a princess. Or does she? With the support of some new friends, a new crush, and a little magic, she just might find that her happily ever after might actually be within her reach.
I am such a sucker for a good graphic novel, and the artwork for this one is very well done. It lends whimsy to such a cute story, full of dreams and magic, just as we would imagine for these characters working in the happiest and most magical places. While this is a young adult graphic novel, I certainly feel like it would be an excellent read for most any age. I grabbed a hardcover copy so my daughters and I can read it together. The ending left it open for sequels, so I certainly hope we hear more from Tabi!
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, and author Marissa Meyer for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Publication Date: June 3, 2025
January 9, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced review copy
THIS WAS SO CUTEEEEEEEE
This is a YA graphic novel about our MC Tabi who dreams of playing a princess at her local theme park, and is dismayed when she is put at the nacho stand instead. But with the help of her new cute friend, she decides to shake things up and chase her dream anyway.
I loved everything about this, from the plus size rep to the Disneyland vibes to the cutesie little romance.
I’d say it’s good for fans of Hot Dog Girl, Pumpkinheads & just a good old time
THIS WAS SO CUTEEEEEEEE
This is a YA graphic novel about our MC Tabi who dreams of playing a princess at her local theme park, and is dismayed when she is put at the nacho stand instead. But with the help of her new cute friend, she decides to shake things up and chase her dream anyway.
I loved everything about this, from the plus size rep to the Disneyland vibes to the cutesie little romance.
I’d say it’s good for fans of Hot Dog Girl, Pumpkinheads & just a good old time
March 30, 2025
I ADORED this graphic novel!
Marissa Meyer is one of my favorite authors, so I was excited to get an ARC of her newest graphic novel. There was a wonderful message of body positivity, set against the charming backdrop of a Disney-esque theme part called Sommerland. The art style was charming and cute, and Tabi was such a sweet character. I liked that she took her job seriously but always had fun with it. The art style reminded me a bit of Pumpkinheads which I also love. I would definitely recommend this gorgeous graphic novel.
Marissa Meyer is one of my favorite authors, so I was excited to get an ARC of her newest graphic novel. There was a wonderful message of body positivity, set against the charming backdrop of a Disney-esque theme part called Sommerland. The art style was charming and cute, and Tabi was such a sweet character. I liked that she took her job seriously but always had fun with it. The art style reminded me a bit of Pumpkinheads which I also love. I would definitely recommend this gorgeous graphic novel.
June 4, 2025
As a girl who dreamed of working as a Disneyland princess for a good portion of her teen years I have to say this book was written for me and I’m sure many more out there.
Tabi got into the summer employment program at the most magical place on earth… Sommerland and is beyond ecstatic to be on track to her real goal…playing her favorite princess in the park! Tabi is a ray of sunshine in the swarms of negative coworkers.. her dreams are shattered but that won’t hold Tabi back. She is more determined than ever to follow her dreams.
This is the second theme park setting I’ve read this year and I’m 👏🏻 here 👏🏻 for 👏🏻 it! The illustrations were magical and the park lingo was spot on. The nods to the infamous park we all know and love (Disney) was such a fun touch. This wholesome graphic novel is perfect for summer reading! Also happy to find out Marissa is a local Tacoma author 🙌🏻
Thank you Fierce Reads and Mac Kids Books
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Tabi got into the summer employment program at the most magical place on earth… Sommerland and is beyond ecstatic to be on track to her real goal…playing her favorite princess in the park! Tabi is a ray of sunshine in the swarms of negative coworkers.. her dreams are shattered but that won’t hold Tabi back. She is more determined than ever to follow her dreams.
This is the second theme park setting I’ve read this year and I’m 👏🏻 here 👏🏻 for 👏🏻 it! The illustrations were magical and the park lingo was spot on. The nods to the infamous park we all know and love (Disney) was such a fun touch. This wholesome graphic novel is perfect for summer reading! Also happy to find out Marissa is a local Tacoma author 🙌🏻
Thank you Fierce Reads and Mac Kids Books
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June 12, 2025
This was adorable and very reminiscent of working for Disney. While I never worked for the actual parks - only the stores - I have multiple friends who work at the parks and I do know a lot of what goes on behind the scenes. You can easily tell this is mirroring the Happiest Place on Earth and I was here for it.
I loved Tabitha's journey. She had a dream and didn't let societies views weigh her down. She didn't look the ideal part of a princess, so what? She still worked her butt off to audition and still held that to be her dream. Her enthusiasm for the park was infectious especially when she was surrounded by so many negative Nancy's. One character who really impressed me was her roommate for the summer program. I expected to not like her based on her initial meeting. But she grew over the summer and ended up being one of my favorite characters.
The love story was adorable. James was super sweet and matched Tabi's excitement and magic level to a T. They were both there for the reasons it counted - to spread magic to those who came. NGL, Disney has been missing this recently and this made me miss the days when the magic was so strong in the parks.
A super quick read due to it being a graphic novel, but still really enjoyed it. The art was lovely as well - fun and colorful, fitting the vibes perfectly.
I loved Tabitha's journey. She had a dream and didn't let societies views weigh her down. She didn't look the ideal part of a princess, so what? She still worked her butt off to audition and still held that to be her dream. Her enthusiasm for the park was infectious especially when she was surrounded by so many negative Nancy's. One character who really impressed me was her roommate for the summer program. I expected to not like her based on her initial meeting. But she grew over the summer and ended up being one of my favorite characters.
The love story was adorable. James was super sweet and matched Tabi's excitement and magic level to a T. They were both there for the reasons it counted - to spread magic to those who came. NGL, Disney has been missing this recently and this made me miss the days when the magic was so strong in the parks.
A super quick read due to it being a graphic novel, but still really enjoyed it. The art was lovely as well - fun and colorful, fitting the vibes perfectly.
March 12, 2025
Thanks to Feiwel & Friends for letting me read this graphic novel early. All thoughts are my own!
This graphic novel is really sweet, but it is so obviously Disney-coded. I really liked our FMC push for her dreams and help bring about some inclusivity. Her attitude and approach to conquering her dreams as adorable. Truly a lovely story with characters you cant help but root for!
I loved the art style and illustrations and color palette of this graphic novel. It was amazing!
Other than the mouse of it all, it’s cute!
This graphic novel is really sweet, but it is so obviously Disney-coded. I really liked our FMC push for her dreams and help bring about some inclusivity. Her attitude and approach to conquering her dreams as adorable. Truly a lovely story with characters you cant help but root for!
I loved the art style and illustrations and color palette of this graphic novel. It was amazing!
Other than the mouse of it all, it’s cute!
June 5, 2025
4.5/5 stars
What a wonderful YA graphic novel featuring a plus-size heroine.
This graphic novel is about Tabitha. She gets a job at her favorite theme park in their summer program.
Her dream has been to play one of the princesses. But she is overweight and none of the princesses look like her.
Tabi is such a delight. Her positive attitude and cheerful demeanour make her such a beautiful character. I loved everything about her.
The art and illustrations of Sommerland (the theme park) are stunning.
I love graphic novels and this one is amazing. The story is wonderful. The friendship and romance between Tabi and James was amazing. What a fun magical read. I absolutely loved it!
What a wonderful YA graphic novel featuring a plus-size heroine.
This graphic novel is about Tabitha. She gets a job at her favorite theme park in their summer program.
Her dream has been to play one of the princesses. But she is overweight and none of the princesses look like her.
Tabi is such a delight. Her positive attitude and cheerful demeanour make her such a beautiful character. I loved everything about her.
The art and illustrations of Sommerland (the theme park) are stunning.
I love graphic novels and this one is amazing. The story is wonderful. The friendship and romance between Tabi and James was amazing. What a fun magical read. I absolutely loved it!
March 7, 2025
Magical, whimsical, just plain fun! I absolutely LOVED this YA graphic novel about a plus size teen of color who dreams of working a Disneyland Park-like amusement park as one of the Princesses and doesn't give up until she makes her dream come true! There's magic, romance, friendship and great messages about body positivity and diversity! HIGHLY recommended especially for fans of books like Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell or Love at full tilt by Jenny L. Howe. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
June 9, 2025
thank you epic reads for sending me this copy bc this graphic novel was SO CUTE.
i loved the messages so much. the body positivity and the little “never give up on your dreams” 😭😭 so adorable
tabi was SUCH a good fmc she was so sweet and i feel like she was portrayed perfectly! i also loved kyra’s development as well! and ofc james. he was such a sweetheart omg.
i loved the messages so much. the body positivity and the little “never give up on your dreams” 😭😭 so adorable
tabi was SUCH a good fmc she was so sweet and i feel like she was portrayed perfectly! i also loved kyra’s development as well! and ofc james. he was such a sweetheart omg.
April 14, 2025
- Thank you netgalley for this graphic enovel arc. As a theme park girlie, I’m obligated to read this.
- Super cute, the author has DEFINITELY worked for the mouse, or heard the nitty gritty of how it works because the details were spot on
- A bit short, but a fun sugary sweet story. A total joy to read.
- Super cute, the author has DEFINITELY worked for the mouse, or heard the nitty gritty of how it works because the details were spot on
- A bit short, but a fun sugary sweet story. A total joy to read.
May 7, 2025
Summary: "We Could Be Magic" is a cozy coming-of-age story with elements of body positivity. It is the perfect lighthearted read with a diverse cast of characters. The story centers around Tabitha (Tabi) and the realities of working in a themed park. Although everything isn't what it was made out to be, Tabi finds comfort in being part of the magic and making guests experience the joy she once felt as a child while finding love along the way.
As a big fan of Marissa Meyer, I was very excited for this graphic novel. While I am very happy that the cast was very diverse, I am a bit hesitant about a Caucasian American author writing a story of an African American MC, especially when many BIPOC authors still struggle to get published.
Aside from that, this was still a cute theme park romance that ends with a very idealistic happy ending. There are barely any struggles or conflicts in this novel, making it a warm and cheerful read. However, that can also come across as having little content. Sequentially, making it feel like there was no character development.
Lastly, while I love the theme park setting, it was a one-for-one comparison of Disney. Which would take me out of the story rather than pull me in.
Overall, this is a great summer read for readers who don't want an overly heavy or investing story.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC!
As a big fan of Marissa Meyer, I was very excited for this graphic novel. While I am very happy that the cast was very diverse, I am a bit hesitant about a Caucasian American author writing a story of an African American MC, especially when many BIPOC authors still struggle to get published.
Aside from that, this was still a cute theme park romance that ends with a very idealistic happy ending. There are barely any struggles or conflicts in this novel, making it a warm and cheerful read. However, that can also come across as having little content. Sequentially, making it feel like there was no character development.
Lastly, while I love the theme park setting, it was a one-for-one comparison of Disney. Which would take me out of the story rather than pull me in.
Overall, this is a great summer read for readers who don't want an overly heavy or investing story.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC!
June 26, 2025
“All my dreams came true… At least until I dreamed up some new ones.”
Beautiful story of kindness, perseverance, dreams, and body positivity. I love that I can always rely on Marissa Meyer to bring some fairy tale magic in my reading ✨
Beautiful story of kindness, perseverance, dreams, and body positivity. I love that I can always rely on Marissa Meyer to bring some fairy tale magic in my reading ✨
June 24, 2025
I loved this so much! The illustrations were gorgeous and the storyline had me smiling. This is why representation matters, especially where young readers are concerned! This story had me laughing, heartsick, and left me with happy tears in my eyes. I would absolutely read a sequel just to see more of these happy illustrations and more of Tabi!
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
Want to read
March 11, 2025Just got approved for the ARC!! I’m so excited <3
April 9, 2025
This was such a wholesome story that just left me feeling so happy! I devoured this book with a smile on my face the entire time. Tabi is a wonderfully relatable character, and I loved her story. From the plot to the art, I found myself practically saying "awww" out loud. I loved all of the little details, like the hidden kitties, and not pointing with one finger (things that felt like an obvious nod to a real life mouse-run kingdom). I would be first in line if there were more books like this one -is it too much to hope for a series!?! I need to revisit Sommerland ASAP.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. This is one I will be purchasing.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. This is one I will be purchasing.
April 24, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for the advance copy from the giveaway!
I fell in love with these characters and I love a plus size female main character! The illustrations are gorgeous and help bring the story to life. I want more of their story! This is a quick paced story that is full of cute moments that will have you giggling and cheering for the characters. Definitely recommend!
I fell in love with these characters and I love a plus size female main character! The illustrations are gorgeous and help bring the story to life. I want more of their story! This is a quick paced story that is full of cute moments that will have you giggling and cheering for the characters. Definitely recommend!
February 20, 2025
Thank you for the ARC! I really loved this book, as I had a very similar experience at a certain “theme park,” except without the happy ending. I couldn’t put this graphic novel down. It was so sweet and fulfilling! Always make magic!
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